The Deschutes County Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) is seeking nominations of businesses that make the extra effort to keep their sidewalks clear of snow and ice. The Safe Sidewalk Awards will be decided on and distributed this spring. Business and property winners will receive a certificate from the County and acknowledgment from their area Chamber of Commerce.

Though the urbanized portions of the County have experienced light snowfall this year, the winter season is far from over. Along with snow and ice comes challenging and often dangerous conditions on sidewalks in commercial areas. BPAC would like to remind County business and property owners of their responsibility to maintain clear sidewalks. The group wants to acknowledge people who are doing an outstanding job of keeping pathways clear.

Many people are not aware of the particular codes set forth in each city in Deschutes County ensuring public safety and how it relates to sidewalks. Sisters, Redmond and Bend all have ordinances relating to the clearing of sidewalks after a storm event. While the language varies a bit from city to city, the message is the same -- business or property owners must clear ice or snow from the sidewalk adjoining their property within six hours of daylight.

These codes not only help make sidewalks safer, but encourage good business practices. When pathways are clear, the message to customers is that the business cares about safety and welcomes access for all to the front door.

The BPAC is an advisory committee of the Deschutes County Commission and seeks to improve conditions for bicyclists and pedestrians throughout Deschutes County.

Nominations can be sent to: Deschutes County Planner Peter Russell by email.For more information about this award or BPAC, visit the County’s web site.